RESILIENCE BEYOND TREATMENT

Navigating Life as a Childhood Cancer Survivor in Nigeria

Surviving childhood cancer is a testament to incredible resilience and strength. However, the journey doesn’t end when the treatment does. In Nigeria, childhood cancer survivors face numerous challenges that extend beyond the hospital walls. These challenges shape their daily lives and test their resilience in profound ways. As a survivor myself, I understand these hurdles intimately and want to shed light on the realities we face and the strength we find to overcome them.

The Financial Burden: An Ongoing Struggle

In Nigeria, the financial burden of childhood cancer extends far beyond the final chemotherapy, radiotherapy session, or surgery. Due to inadequate government intervention and the lack of a comprehensive insurance scheme, many families find themselves struggling to afford ongoing medical care and follow-up appointments. This financial strain is overwhelming, as patients and survivors often require regular check-ups and treatments for the late effects of cancer therapy. Consequently, families are frequently forced to make difficult decisions, sacrificing other essential needs to pay for medical care or, in some cases, foregoing necessary treatments altogether, leading to a higher mortality rate.

Understanding and Managing Late Effects

One of the significant challenges survivors face is the lack of understanding and resources for managing late effects. Many survivors experience complications years after their treatment, such as cognitive difficulties, growth issues, secondary cancers amongst others. However, there is limited awareness and support for these long-term effects, leaving survivors and their families feeling lost and unsupported. Navigating these late effects requires specialized care, which is often inaccessible due to financial constraints and a lack of knowledgeable healthcare providers.

Stigmatization and Social Challenges

Stigmatization remains a significant barrier for childhood cancer survivors in Nigeria. Misconceptions about cancer can lead to rejection and discrimination, especially in social and marital contexts. Survivors often face rejection from suitors who fear the disease or misunderstand its implications. This stigmatization can severely impact a survivor’s self-esteem and sense of belonging.

Educational Challenges and Peer Comparison

The impact of cancer on a child’s education is profound. Extended hospital stays and treatment side effects can lead to missed school days, learning difficulties, and poor academic performance. Many survivors struggle with the feeling of not measuring up to their peers academically and socially. The educational system often lacks the flexibility and support needed to accommodate these unique challenges, leaving survivors to navigate their education with limited assistance.

Reintegration into Society

Reintegrating into society post-treatment is another significant hurdle. Survivors often find it challenging to resume their normal activities and roles. The fear and anxiety of a potential recurrence of cancer can overshadow their efforts to rebuild their lives. Additionally, physical challenges and mobility issues resulting from the disease or its treatment can further complicate this process. Survivors must learn to adapt to their new normal, which can be a daunting and isolating experience.

Fear and Anxiety

The fear of cancer returning is a constant shadow for many survivors. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, affecting their mental health and overall well-being. The lack of psychological support and counseling services in Nigeria exacerbates this issue, leaving survivors to cope with their fears on their own.

Physical Challenges and Mobility

Physical limitations resulting from cancer treatment can hinder a survivor’s daily life. Mobility issues, chronic pain, and other physical challenges can make it difficult for survivors to participate in activities they once enjoyed. These physical barriers can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness, further impacting their quality of life.

A Call for Support and Understanding

Despite these challenges, childhood cancer patient and survivors in Nigeria demonstrate remarkable resilience. However, their journey could be significantly eased with greater support and understanding. It is crucial for government bodies, healthcare providers, philanthropies, NGOs, and society at large to recognize and address the unique needs of survivors. Comprehensive insurance plans, increased awareness of late effects, educational support, and psychological counseling are essential components of a support system that can help survivors thrive beyond treatment. There is an urgent need for an insurance scheme that covers at least 50% of the financial support for children with cancer in Nigeria, along with a tailored and robust survivorship care framework.

As a survivor and advocate, I am committed to raising awareness about these issues and working towards a future where every survivor has the resources and support they need to navigate life beyond cancer. 

"Together, we can build a community that understands, supports, and celebrates the strength of childhood cancer patients and survivors in Nigeria"